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Sociology/Anthropology Department

When you explore sociology and anthropology at SUNY Cortland, you’ll immerse yourself in the study of the human condition. You’ll examine how societies and cultures are formed and how they shape and are shaped by human behavior. You’ll develop analytical, critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills that are vital in any walk of life.

Classes are small, led by faculty who are eager to help you succeed. Opportunities for independent research, internships, fieldwork, study abroad and service-learning will let you put classroom theory to the test in the real world.

The list of career paths the department prepares students for is long and diverse. Our graduates have gone on to successful careers as educators, law enforcers, human service professionals, cultural resource managers, researchers, attorneys, human rights advocates, and more. The skills we impart are transferable across numerous fields. 



News

Student archaeologists explore Alaska, Türkiye

Sept. 9, 2025
SUNY Cortland launched a record half-dozen undergraduates on archaeological forays in Türkiye and Alaska.

Brooks lectures explore “The Culture of Turmoil”

Sept. 3, 2025
The 2025-26 series opens with a panel on America’s new politics of immigration.

History major featured at 2025 international seminar

July 21, 2025
Katrina Ludwikowski presented on the American post-Civil War era to historians focused on heritage interpretation.

Laura Gathagan honored for dedicated teaching 

May 19, 2025
The SUNY Cortland associate professor of history helps students uncover new knowledge about past eras.

College education transformed former inmate

March 25, 2025
Richard Rivera learned hard lessons from incarceration but also earned a college degree.

Clubs/Societies

  • Sociology/Anthropology Club
  • Alpha Kappa Delta (International Honor Society for Sociology)
  • Alpha Phi Sigma (National Honor Society for Criminology)